Arm support device

ABSTRACT

Arm support devices, which are suitable for a seated person wears to provide comfort, especially while traveling, are provide. Methods of providing support are also disclosed.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63/204,683 filed Oct. 16, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to an arm support device. More particularly, the invention relates to an arm support device that a seated person wears to provide support and comfort, especially while traveling.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Air travel has become more uncomfortable over the years. In an effort to pack more passengers on a single flight, airlines have resorted to the smallest possible seat possible allowing for densely-packed passengers. This is not to the advantage of the passenger, especially on longer flights, such as long-haul flights where it is desirable to get some rest during the flight. Due to limited incline of the seat, densely packed flights, and the close proximity of fellow passengers in adjacent seats with limited support from arm rests, it may be impossible for some passengers to get any rest on a flight. Thus, there is a need for a solution to enable passengers, especially those on long-haul flights, to find a way to sleep comfortably in an upright and seated position. Of course, the need for comfort while seated in an upright position is not limited to airplanes and extends to other forms of travel (such as rail, bus and automobiles), as well as any need to sit in an upright position for an extended period of time (such as wheelchair-bound patients and even those watching television).

There have been a number of attempts to address the problem of providing arm support while sitting in an upright position for an extended period of time. For example, US-B1-10,045,626 describes an elbow rest that is configured with a flexible strap and a flexible strap attached thereto to secure a user's elbow(s) in a retained position while in a seated position, where a user can then support his/her own head with his/her hand(s) without his/her elbows slipping, sliding, or moving. In another example, EP-B1-3,072,420 discloses a travel support device for supporting the human head while in a sitting position by placing the device between the user's thighs and lower jaw to support the head and upper torso in an upright position. In yet a further example, there a several neck massagers with flexible handles that let the user control the intensity level of the neck massager with heat and vibrations. Unfortunately, the neck massagers with flexible handles have a motor to generate the heat and vibrations and cannot be easily folded to be placed in a coat pocket or other small compartment because of the substantial girth of the motor in the neck region of the device. In addition to being difficult to fold and store, the devices have a weight of about five pounds, which can be unacceptable additional weight to carry when the user is traveling and already burdened with other luggage and carryon items.

No current offerings seem to address the need for addressing the problem of providing support for the arms themselves while sitting in an upright position for an extended period of time, yet is lightweight and may be easily folded and stored in a small compartment, such as a coat and pant pocket, briefcase, backpack, or handbag. The arm support devices and methods of the present invention are directed toward these, as well as other, important ends.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to an arm support device that a seated person wears to provide support and comfort for an extended period of time, especially while traveling.

Accordingly, one embodiment the invention is directed to an arm support device (100) for a user, comprising:

a pocket member (110) comprising:

-   -   a first pocket end (112) comprising an opening suitable for         insertion of at least a right hand of said user; and     -   a second pocket end (114) comprising an opening suitable for         insertion of a left hand of said user;

an elongated member (120) comprising:

-   -   a first strap end (122);     -   wherein said first strap end is attached to said pocket member;     -   a second strap end (124);     -   wherein said second strap end is attached to said pocket member;         and     -   a central strap portion (126);     -   wherein said central strap portion is located approximately         midway between said first strap end and said second strap end.

In another embodiment, the invention is directed to an arm support device for a user, comprising:

a first pocket member (210) comprising:

-   -   a first pocket end (212) comprising an opening suitable for         insertion of at least a right hand of said user;

a second pocket member (213) comprising:

-   -   a second pocket end (214) comprising an opening suitable for         insertion of

a left hand of said user;

an elongated member (220) comprising:

-   -   a first strap end (222);     -   wherein said first strap end is attached to said first pocket         member;     -   a second strap end (224);     -   wherein said second strap end is attached to said second pocket         member; and     -   a central strap portion (226);     -   wherein said central strap portion is located approximately         midway between said first strap end and said second strap end.

In certain embodiments, the invention is directed to a coat or jacket, comprising said arm support devices described herein.

In certain other embodiments, the invention is directed to methods of providing support to a user in a seated position, comprising:

providing said arm support device described herein; and inserting a right hand and a left hand of said user into said pocket member.

The summary of the invention is provided as a general introduction to some of the embodiments of the invention, and is not intended to be limiting. Additional example embodiments, including variations and alternative configurations, of the invention are provided herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. As will be realized, the subject matter described herein is capable of other and different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various respects, all without departing from the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative and not restrictive. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an arm support device described herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an arm support device described herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an arm support device described herein in FIG. 2, including a covering (such as a shawl).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof.

Definitions

As employed above and throughout the disclosure, the following terms, unless otherwise indicated, shall be understood to have the following meanings.

As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended are open-ended and cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Also, use of “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include “one” or “at least one” and the singular also includes the plural, unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise by the context. As used herein, the term “about,” when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of ±10%, preferably, ±8%, more preferably, ±5%, even more preferably, ±1%, and yet even more preferably, ±0.1% from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed devices and methods.

As used herein, “lightweight” means with respect to the devices herein a device weighing less than three (3) pounds, preferably less than two (2) pounds, and even more preferably, less than one (1) pound.

As used herein, “compact” means with respect to the devices herein a device that may be folded to a dimension of less than a six (6) inch width (preferably less than a four (4) inch width), six (6) inch length (preferably less than a four (4) inch width), and four (4) inch depth (preferably less than a two (2) inch depth).

As used herein, “approximately mid torso” means with respect to the devices herein that the forearms of the user make 45-135°, preferably 75-135°, more preferable 75-105° angle with the upper arm on both sides, when arms are held close to or flush against the front of the user's torso.

The invention relates generally to an arm support device that a seated person wears to provide support and comfort for an extended period of time, especially while traveling. Furthermore, the arm support devices of the invention are lightweight and/or compact, such that they are easy to transport and store, especially while traveling and burdened with other luggage.

Accordingly, in one embodiment where the two arm supports are connected with a separate side opening for each hand as shown in FIG. 1, the invention is directed to an arm support device (100) for a user, comprising:

a pocket member (110) comprising:

-   -   a first pocket end (112) comprising an opening suitable for         insertion of at least a right hand of said user; and     -   a second pocket end (114) comprising an opening suitable for         insertion of a left hand of said user;

an elongated member (120) comprising:

-   -   a first strap end (122);     -   wherein said first strap end is attached to said pocket member;     -   a second strap end (124);     -   wherein said second strap end is attached to said pocket member;         and     -   a central strap portion (126);     -   wherein said central strap portion is located approximately         midway between said first strap end and said second strap end.

In another embodiment, where the two arm supports are not connected as shown in FIG. 2, the invention is directed to an arm support device (200) for a user, comprising:

a first pocket member (210) comprising:

-   -   a first pocket end (212) comprising an opening suitable for         insertion of at least a right hand of said user; a second pocket         member (213) comprising:     -   a second pocket end (214) comprising an opening suitable for         insertion of a left hand of said user;

an elongated member (220) comprising:

-   -   a first strap end (222);     -   wherein said first strap end is attached to said first pocket         member;     -   a second strap end (224);     -   wherein said second strap end is attached to said second pocket         member; and     -   a central strap portion (226);     -   wherein said central strap portion is located approximately         midway between said first strap end and said second strap end.         This embodiment provides two “muffs” or “pockets” with one muff         or pocket for each hand, permitting greater mobility of the         hands and arms of the user.

In either embodiment, the elongated member (120 or 220) has a total length sufficient to span the length between said user's right hand and said user's left hand as measured closely behind said user's neck when said user's right hand and said user's left hand are held at approximately mid torso of said user.

In the arm support device, the elongated member (120 or 220) is adjustable in length. Suitable ways to adjust the length of the elongated member includes but is not limited to via hook-and-loop fasteners (sold under brand name of Velcro), snaps, buttons, hooks, zippers, magnets, simple laces, and the like, and combinations thereof.

In the arm support device, the elongated member (120 or 220) can be made of a supportive material, which is the same as or different than the material used to make the pocket member. The supportive material provides sufficient support to hold the forearms/wrist/hands approximately perpendicular to upper arms against torso. Suitable supportive materials including, but are not limited to, woven fabric, knitted fabric, nonwoven fabric, and foam material, specifically including a 4-way stretch material, Ponte Roma, elastomeric material, nylon Lycra, and other related materials.

In certain embodiments, such as shown, for example, in FIG. 1, the pocket member (110) supports at least a portion of a forearm, a wrist, a hand, or a combination thereof on each side of said user. The length of said pocket member (110) is at least a portion of the distance between an elbow and an extended fingertip of said user. It is preferable that the length of the pocket member is not so narrow that it cuts off the circulation in the arm of the user, especially depending upon the type of material used to make the pocket member.

In certain embodiments, such as shown, for example, in FIG. 2, the first pocket member (210) supports at least a portion of a forearm, a wrist, a hand, or a combination thereof on each side of said user; and the second pocket member (213) supports at least a portion of a forearm, a wrist, a hand, or a combination thereof on each side of said user. In certain embodiments, the length of said first pocket member is at least a portion of the distance between an elbow and an extended fingertip of said user; and the length of said second pocket member is at least a portion of the distance between an elbow and an extended fingertip of said user.

In certain embodiments, the first pocket member is releasably attached to said second pocket end. The two muffs may be releasably secured together for comfort and to reduce mobility as needed. Suitable ways to releasably secure the two muffs or pockets together include but are not limited to via hook-and-loop fasteners (sold under brand name of Velcro), snaps, buttons, hooks, zippers, magnets, simple laces, and the like, and combinations thereof.

In certain embodiments, the arm support device, further comprises a neck support (130 or 230) attached to said central strap portion (126 or 226). The neck support (130 or 230) may be a pillow (140 or 240). The pillow may be full or inflatable. The pillow may be filled with any suitable stuffing, such as, for example, batting, beans, air, or other fluid.

In certain embodiments, the neck support (130 or 230) is releasably attached to said central strap portion to facilitate replacement and/or cleaning.

In certain embodiments of the arm support device, shown in FIG. 1, the first pocket end (112) is detachable from said second pocket end (114).

In certain embodiments of the arm support device, the first pocket end forms a glove (with separate fingers and thumb portions or with grouped fingers and thumb portions); and the second pocket end form a glove (with separate fingers and thumb portions or with grouped fingers and thumb portions).

In certain embodiments, the arm support device further comprises a covering (250), such as a shawl, attached to the central strap portion (226), such as shown in FIG. 3. The covering may be a blanket, cape, shawl, poncho, scarf, hat, balaclava, or a combination thereof. The covering can provide warmth, privacy, block light or blowing air, or a combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the arm support device further comprises a storage pocket (160 or 260). The storage pocket may be large enough to accommodate electronic devices (such as a mobile device or smart device), travel documents (such as passport and travel tickets), identification cards (such as driver's license or military identification), credit, debit, or gift cards, eyeglasses, or the arm support device itself. The storage pocket may be releasably closable, such as for example to via hook-and-loop fasteners (sold under brand name of Velcro), snaps, buttons, hooks, zippers, magnets, simple laces, and the like, and combinations thereof. The storage pocket may be located on an area of the arm support device large enough to hold the storage pocket, especially so that it is not uncomfortable for the user. Suitable locations include the neck support, central strap portion, and the elongated member.

In certain embodiments, the invention is directed to a coat or jacket, comprising said arm support devices described herein.

In certain other embodiments, the invention is directed to methods of providing support to a user in a seated position, comprising:

providing said arm support device described herein; and inserting a right hand and a left hand of said user into said pocket member.

The pocket member may be made of a supportive material (such as, for example, a 4-way stretch material, Ponte Roma, elastomeric material, nylon Lycra, or other related material).

When ranges are used herein for physical properties, such as size dimensions and ratios, all combinations, and subcombinations of ranges specific embodiments therein are intended to be included.

The disclosures of each patent, patent application, and publication cited or described in this document are hereby incorporated herein by reference, in their entirety.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous changes and modifications can be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention and that such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Specific embodiments, features and elements described herein may be modified, and/or combined in any suitable manner. It is, therefore, intended that the appended claims cover all such equivalent variations as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An arm support device for a user, comprising: a first pocket member (210) comprising: a first pocket end (212) comprising an opening suitable for insertion of at least a right hand of said user; a second pocket member (213) comprising: a second pocket end (214) comprising an opening suitable for insertion of a left hand of said user; an elongated member (220) comprising: a first strap end (222); wherein said first strap end is attached to said first pocket member; a second strap end (224); wherein said second strap end is attached to said second pocket member; and a central strap portion (226); wherein said central strap portion is located approximately midway between said first strap end and said second strap end.
 2. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein said elongated member has a total length sufficient to span the length between said user's right hand and said user's left hand as measured closely behind said user's neck when said user's right hand and said user's left hand are held at approximately mid torso of said user.
 3. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein said elongated member is adjustable in length.
 4. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein said elongated member comprises at least one fastener selected from the group consisting of hook-and-loop fastener, snap, button, hook, zipper, magnet, laces, and combinations thereof.
 5. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein said first pocket member supports at least a portion of a forearm, a wrist, a hand, or a combination thereof on each side of said user; and wherein said second pocket member supports at least a portion of a forearm, a wrist, a hand, or a combination thereof on each side of said user.
 6. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein the length of said first pocket member is at least a portion of the distance between an elbow and an extended fingertip of said user; and wherein the length of said second pocket member is at least a portion of the distance between an elbow and an extended fingertip of said user.
 7. The arm support device of claim 1, further comprises: a neck support (230) attached to said central strap portion.
 8. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein each of said first pocket member and said second pocket member comprises at least one material selected from a woven fabric, knitted fabric, nonwoven fabric, foam material, and combinations thereof.
 9. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein said elongated member comprises at least one material selected from a woven fabric, knitted fabric, nonwoven fabric, foam material, and combinations thereof.
 10. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein the elongated member and each of said first pocket member and said second pocket member are formed from the same material.
 11. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein said neck support is a pillow (240).
 12. The arm support device of claim 11, wherein said pillow is an inflatable pillow.
 13. The arm support device of claim 11, wherein said neck support is releasably attached to said central strap portion.
 14. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein said first pocket member is releasably attached to said second pocket end.
 15. The arm support device of claim 1, wherein said first pocket member forms a glove; and wherein said second pocket member form a glove.
 16. The arm support device of claim 1, further comprising: a covering (250) attached to said central strap portion.
 17. The arm support device of claim 16, wherein said covering is a blanket, cape, shawl, poncho, scarf, hat, balaclava, or a combination thereof.
 18. The arm support device of claim 1, further comprising: a storage pocket (260).
 19. A coat or jacket, comprising: said arm support device of claim
 1. 20. A method of providing support to a user in a seated position, comprising: providing said arm support device of claim 1; and inserting a right hand of said user into said first pocket end and a left hand of said user into said second pocket end. 